An all terrain vehicle route was originally proposed by the Elko Convention and Visitors Authority in late 2003. BLM Elko Field Office published an Environmental Assessment on the proposal earlier this year. Ensuing discussions raised concerns about critical wildlife habitat, impacts to livestock operations, historic structures, and other issues.

BLM Elko Field Manager Helen Hankins commented, “There have been a lot of interest, concern, and discussion in the community about Spruce Mountain. The area is a wildlife and culturally sensitive area and we’ll be working with all interested groups to protect crucial mule deer winter range, lessen any potential adverse impacts to other wildlife species, and protect significant cultural resources. We expect to complete the administrative work for Spruce Mountain before the end of the year and will have more information to share with people then.”